Sultan Bin Ahmed Attends Forum on Cooperation Among Arab Universities
Sharjah Hosts Groundbreaking Forum for Arab Universities: A Focus on Green Entrepreneurship and Environmental Collaboration
In a significant gathering of minds dedicated to advancing higher education within the Arab world, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, inaugurated the second forum for twinning Arab universities. Held from November 20 to 22, the forum’s theme, “Green entrepreneurship and voluntary environmental teams in Arab universities – prospects for cooperation,” underscores a shared commitment among university leaders to enhance collaboration in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
This initiative is organized by the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation (ALECSO) and reflects a burgeoning recognition of the crucial role universities play in promoting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The forum has attracted a diverse array of participants, including representatives from UNESCO, youth organizations, and experts in various green initiatives, aiming to influence policy and educational approaches across the region.
Throughout the forum, discussions have focused on critical issues such as sustainable entrepreneurship and the empowerment of university students to engage in community-driven environmental projects. These conversations are not merely academic; they are designed to foster practical cooperation among institutions and harness the collective capabilities of the Arab University network to confront the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. This approach reflects a broader trend within higher education that prioritizes sustainability and community service as essential components of academic development.
A notable outcome of this collaboration was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Sharjah and ALECSO, aimed at enhancing cooperation in areas such as research, community outreach, and academic growth. Such agreements are pivotal in establishing a framework that supports the exchange of knowledge and resources, ultimately promoting a more integrated and effective approach to higher education in the Arab region.
Accompanying the forum was the ALECSO Award for Creativity and Innovation, which recognized esteemed researchers and institutions excelling in areas related to green entrepreneurship and sustainability. This award serves not only to celebrate individual and organizational achievements but also to inspire a culture of innovation and environmental consciousness within academic circles.
The forum builds on the success of its inaugural edition in Tunis, which established a foundation for future engagements among Arab universities. By nurturing a spirit of collaboration, participants hope to develop impactful educational models that can be adapted across diverse contexts within the region.
In another significant cultural initiative, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi recently opened the exhibition titled “Rumi: 750 Years of Absence… Eight Centuries of Presence” at the House of Wisdom in Sharjah. This exhibition, lasting until February 14, 2025, aims to honor the legacy of the renowned philosopher and poet Jalal Al Din Al Rumi. It contextualizes his life and works while illustrating his profound influence on literature, philosophy, and Sufism.
Upon his arrival, Sheikh Sultan was greeted by several dignitaries, including Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, who expressed the exhibition’s overarching goal: to foster a deeper understanding of shared humanity through artistic and cultural engagement. She emphasized Rumi’s enduring message of love, understanding, and the importance of transcending cultural boundaries – a theme that resonates deeply within today’s fragmented global landscape.
The exhibition is thoughtfully organized into three thematic sections, each designed to immerse visitors in different aspects of Rumi’s life and contributions. “The Beginnings” chronicles his early years, while “The Transformation” delves into his spiritual awakening, particularly his transformative friendship with Shams Al Din Al Tabrizi. The final section, “The Legacy,” showcases how Rumi’s teachings continue to impact various spheres, including his teachings on divine love and the Mevlevi whirling ceremony, which symbolizes his spiritual philosophy.
As a precursor to the inaugural Tanweer Festival scheduled for November 22-24 in Mleiha Desert, the exhibition is expected to amplify community engagement and reflection through artistic expressions inspired by Rumi’s wisdom. This festival, a pioneering event in the region, aims to unite international artists through music, poetry, and visual arts, promoting universal values and spiritual enlightenment.
In summary, the forum and the exhibition represent a dual commitment to sustainability and cultural enrichment within Sharjah and the broader Arab region. By anchoring environmental action in the academic sector and celebrating cultural heritage, both events seek to inspire a collective movement towards greater awareness and engagement with the pressing issues of our time.
Tags: #EducationNews, #EnvironmentNews, #UAE, #ArabWorld, #Sustainability
